Indian · Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India · Born 4 October 1997Indian wicket-keeper batsman known for aggressive batting style and match-winning performances in Test cricket, particularly overseas tours.
Rishabh Rajendra Pant was born in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India in 1997. He made his international debut in 2017 aged 19. His Test batting average of 43.5 includes multiple match-winning innings outside India — including the famous unbeaten century at the Gabba in Brisbane in 2021 that ended Australia's unbeaten run at that ground since 1988. His batting style — attacking from the first ball, improvised scoops and ramps, hitting against the spin and pace in unconventional ways — makes him simultaneously the most entertaining and most anxiety-inducing batsman in Indian cricket. On 30 December 2022 he fell asleep at the wheel while driving on the Delhi-Haridwar highway, crashed his car into a road divider and suffered multiple injuries including ligament damage, a fractured skull and burns. He required multiple surgeries. He returned to competitive cricket in October 2023 — less than 18 months after the accident — and played a match-winning innings in his comeback Test. He was sold for ₹27 crore ($3.3 million) at the IPL auction in 2025 — the most expensive player in IPL auction history. His combination of physical courage, individual brilliance and the comeback narrative make him one of cricket's most beloved figures.
His match-winning 89 not out in the fourth innings at the Gabba in 2021, helping India breach Australia's fortress and win their first Test series in Australia since 1991.
How They Played
Pant is known for his aggressive and fearless batting approach, often playing attacking shots even in pressure situations. He possesses exceptional hand-eye coordination and can clear the boundary with ease, making him particularly dangerous in limited-overs cricket. His wicket-keeping has improved significantly over the years, and he's capable of taking spectacular catches and executing quick stumpings.
Lasting Impact
Pant has redefined the role of modern wicket-keeper batsmen with his aggressive approach and match-winning abilities in crucial situations.
Career Honours
- ICC T20 World Cup (2024)
- Test victories in Australia and England as captain
- IPL Champion (Delhi Capitals 2020)
| Club | Period | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi Capitals | 2016–2024 | 111 | 3284 |
| Delhi Daredevils | 2016–2018 | — | — |
Indian Athletes